Gamma Binaural Beats & 40 Hz: What They Are & What Research Says
Updated: 6 days ago
Gamma binaural beats are the fastest binaural beats, usually around 40 Hz. Interest in them has grown along with headlines about 40 Hz research. Here is what gamma binaural beats are, what that research actually found, and how to listen.
What are gamma binaural beats?
Gamma binaural beats create a perceived beat in the gamma range, 30 Hz and above (often 40 Hz). For example, a 200 Hz tone in one ear and a 240 Hz tone in the other creates a 40 Hz gamma beat.
Two tones with slightly different pitches are played, one in each ear. Your brain perceives a slow “beat” at the difference between them. The effect was first described by the physicist Heinrich Wilhelm Dove in 1839, and became popular after a 1973 article by Gerald Oster. Because each ear needs its own tone, binaural beats only work with headphones.
What are gamma brainwaves linked to?
Gamma brainwaves are fast, low-amplitude rhythms linked to high-level processing, such as combining information from different senses and focused attention. They are much harder to measure than slower brainwaves.
What does the research say?
Research on binaural beats is mixed. A 2019 meta-analysis of more than 20 studies found small to moderate effects on anxiety, memory, attention and pain perception, but results varied a lot between studies. A 2023 systematic review found little consistent evidence that binaural beats actually shift brainwaves to match the beat. The honest summary: many people find them relaxing or helpful for focus, but they are not a proven treatment for anything.
What people use gamma binaural beats for
Concentration: a short, bright session before demanding work.
Learning: background sound while studying new material.
Meditation: some experienced meditators like a gamma session for alert awareness.
Morning focus: a few minutes to start the day.
Curiosity: comparing how gamma feels next to alpha or beta.
How to listen to gamma binaural beats
Use headphones or earbuds. Binaural beats don’t work through speakers.
Keep the volume low to moderate. The beat should sit in the background.
Start with 10 to 20 minutes.
Never listen while driving or operating machinery.
Keep sessions short at first, around 10 to 15 minutes, and notice how you feel afterwards.
Gamma binaural beats and the 40 Hz research
You may have seen headlines about 40 Hz and brain health. That research, started at MIT, mostly used flickering light and pulsing sound in mice. It did not test binaural beats, and it does not show that listening to gamma binaural beats prevents or treats any condition. Human studies are ongoing.
Listen in the Healing Sounds app
Healing Sounds is a free app with 500+ sounds, including gamma binaural beats and the other brainwave ranges, solfeggio frequencies, Tibetan singing bowls and white, brown and pink noise. Mix a binaural beat with rain or ocean sounds to make your own blend.
Long binaural beats and frequency videos are also on our Healing Sounds YouTube channel.
Frequently asked questions
Does 40 Hz prevent dementia?
No. Early 40 Hz research is interesting, but it mostly used pulsing light and sound in mice, not binaural beats, and it does not show that listening to 40 Hz prevents or treats dementia.
Are gamma binaural beats good for focus?
Some people find a short gamma session helps them feel alert. Evidence is limited, so compare it with beta and keep what works for you.
Do I need headphones for gamma binaural beats?
Yes. Binaural beats need a different tone in each ear, so they only work with headphones or earbuds. Through speakers, you just hear the tones mixed together.
How long should I listen to gamma binaural beats?
Start with 10 to 20 minutes. If you enjoy it, try longer sessions. Keep the volume low to moderate.
Are gamma binaural beats safe?
For most people, yes, at a low to moderate volume. Don’t listen while driving or doing anything that needs full attention. If you have epilepsy or a seizure disorder, check with your doctor first.
Explore more guides
This article is for general information about relaxation and sound. It is not medical advice. If you have a health or mental health concern, or epilepsy or a seizure disorder, please talk to your doctor before using binaural beats.
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